Pomegranates are considered one of the most nutritious fruits as well as being equally delicious. They are packed with antioxidants, including ellagitannins, anthocyanins, and organic acids, which protect cells from oxidative damage. To take full advantage of its benefits and avoid potential risks, there are some important points to keep in mind. We talk to our expert Dr. Archana Batra, Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Educator, who listed seven things you should avoid when eating pomegranates.
1. Ignore the clutter factor
You must avoid underestimating the potential disaster. Pomegranates are known for being messy because their juicy seeds, or arils, often spill out and discolor everything they come into contact with. Dr Batra said: “When preparing fruit, use a large bowl or sink and wear old clothes or an apron. Cutting fruit in water is a good way to reduce splashing. While chopping, submerging the pomegranate in a bowl of water helps contain the liquids and makes the process of extracting the seeds from the shell easier.”
2. Eat the bark
“The peel of pomegranates is not suitable for consumption, even though it contains tasty and healthy seeds. Its stiff and thick outer skin is unpleasant and bitter,” added Dr. Batra. So, focus on removing and savoring the juicy, sweet-sour arils inside. The easiest method to do this is to score the peel and then open the pomegranate to get to the seeds without eating the peel.
Also read: From weight loss to good skin: here are 8 benefits of pomegranate juice
3. Exaggerate
You should avoid eating too many arils at once. Dr Batra said: “Pomegranates are packed with fibre, which is beneficial for digestion, but consuming too many arils can lead to digestive problems such as an upset stomach or diarrhoea.”
Moderation is key. A serving of about half a cup of arils is enough to enjoy the health benefits of the fruit without overdoing it. This way you can taste the fruit while maintaining digestive comfort.
4. Forget about allergies
Pomegranate allergies are rare, however, they can occur in some people. An allergic reaction can cause swelling, itching, and difficulty breathing. It is essential to stop eating pomegranates immediately and seek medical help if you experience any of these symptoms. It is possible to avoid major health problems and ensure a safe eating experience by being aware of potential sensitivities.
5. Throwing away whole fruit too quickly
Avoid throwing away the whole fruit if the outer skin appears imperfect. Pomegranates occasionally have discolored or blemished skin, although this does not always indicate that the seeds they contain are of poor quality. “The thick skin of pomegranates protects the seeds inside. If the fruit appears broken, make sure the inside is still delicious and the arils are intact before throwing it away. Often the seeds are perfect even when the outer layer is not,” Dr. Batra noted.
Also Read: Lesser Known Health Benefits of Pomegranate Seeds
6. Eat green pomegranates
An unripe pomegranate can be quite acidic and less tasty. To determine if a pomegranate is ripe, choose one that appears heavy for its size and has a deep, vibrant color. Although firm, the skin should give slightly when pressure is applied. The greatest flavor and sweetness comes from a ripe pomegranate, which enhances the pleasure of eating.
7. Ignore nutritional benefits
Don’t miss out on the health benefits of pomegranates if you don’t include them in your diet regularly. Pomegranates are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, and offer several health benefits, such as lower blood pressure, reduced inflammation, and possible cancer prevention.
Therefore, be sure to include pomegranates in your diet regularly to fully experience these benefits. The seeds are edible and the juice can be consumed or added to various dishes, such as smoothies, salads and desserts. Regular consumption of pomegranates can significantly improve your health in several ways.
A study involving people with heart disease revealed that drinking pomegranate juice reduced the frequency and severity of chest pain while decreasing specific biomarkers, suggesting a protective impact on heart health.
Bottom line
Dr. Batra concluded: “Pomegranates are a nutritious and delicious powerhouse that you can include in your diet for a host of health benefits. However, you need to avoid common mistakes such as overdoing it, underestimating the mess, and eating the inedible parts to properly enjoy and reap the benefits of this fruit. By using, storing and handling pomegranates correctly, you can enhance your experience and maximize the health benefits of this superfruit.”
(Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Therefore, we advise you to consult with your own professional before making any dietary changes, especially if you are dealing with any health problems to avoid complications.)
